site.btaBulgaria Honours Saint George, Patron of the Bulgarian Armed Forces

May 6 honours Saint George the Victorious, patron of Bulgaria’s Armed Forces and one of Christendom’s most revered warrior saints.

Born in Cappadocia, Asia Minor, during the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305 AD), George joined the Roman army as a teenager, rose swiftly to the rank of tribune and earned a reputation for courage and leadership. When Diocletian renewed persecution of Christians, George openly professed his faith, freed his household slaves, distributed his wealth to the poor and appeared before the imperial court in Nicomedia to defend Christianity.

Refusing repeated calls to renounce Christ, he endured brutal torture yet remained steadfast, telling his captors, “You will grow tired of tormenting me sooner than I will tire of being tormented by you.” Witnesses to his resolve converted on the spot. George was beheaded on April 23, 303, walking to the execution site with dignity.

Since the Middle Ages he stands as protector of soldiers and patron of numerous countries and cities with Christian traditions, while also earning respect in Islam.